Lake Lonsdale has an important role in the community as a recreational lake in the Stawell area, hosting a number of activities on its northern side, such as boating, swimming, camping and water skiing.

Taylors Lake has an important role in supplying environmental water to the Wimmera River. It's also very popular with Horsham locals for recreation, especially fishing and water skiing. When other lakes are dry, Taylors Lake will often still have water to enjoy.

Green Lake is no longer used as a water supply reservoir, but plays an important role in managing the water quality within the headworks system. Green lake also offers a variety of recreational opportunities.